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The Toyota Tacoma stands as a symbol of dependability, allowing you to conquer challenging terrains and embrace countless adventures. An important way for you to unlock its full potential lies in vehicle maintenance. Regular service and oil changes are essential to keep your Tacoma running smoothly.
What Is the Best Oil to Use for the Tacoma?
The recommended oil type and viscosity for the Toyota Tacoma may vary depending on the specific model year and engine variant. It runs well on synthetic oil with a grade of SAE 0W-20 or SW 5W-20.To ensure accuracy, it is crucial to consult your owners manual for the correct oil type. If you don’t have access to your manual or need to double-check, our service center at Keith Pierson Toyota in Jacksonville, Florida, is ready to assist you.
How Often Does the Tacoma Need an Oil Change?
The recommended oil change interval for the Toyota Tacoma is every six months or every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, whichever comes first. However, it’s important to note that the specific interval may vary based on factors such as the model year, engine type, driving conditions, and the type of oil used. In newer Toyota models, a maintenance reminder system is often installed, which monitors driving conditions and oil life to indicate the need for an oil change.
There are several signs that indicate the need for an oil change, including smoke emitting from the exhaust, unusual engine noises, or vibrations when the engine is idle. Check your oil levels and texture using the dipstick provided with your vehicle. If you observe low oil levels or oil that is too thick or thin to flow properly, it’s time to change the oil, even if it’s not due for a scheduled service.
Why Should You Change the Oil in Your Tacoma?
It’s important that your motor oil has the appropriate consistency for your engine to perform at its best. Motor oil serves multiple vital functions, such as lubricating the various moving parts to prevent friction and potential damage from scraping. It also plays a vital role in reducing heat buildup within the engine, preventing the risk of overheating. Regularly changing your oil and filter is essential for extending the lifespan of your engine and ensuring it remains free from blow-by contaminants. These refer to the combustion gases that get past the piston rings into the crankcase.
While oil additives may provide some benefits by extending the time between oil changes, it’s important not to neglect this maintenance task beyond a certain point. Failing to address oil changes on time can have a snowball effect, potentially leading to severe mechanical issues down the line.
How To Change the Oil
To change the oil in your Tacoma, you can follow a similar process as you would for any other vehicle. Here are the steps to successfully perform this service.
Prepare Your Tools
Begin by gathering the necessary tools and materials, which include rags, a new oil filter, a wrench, a ratchet, socket extensions, an oil drain pan, a funnel, gloves, and new oil.
Raise Your Tacoma
You have a few options available in raising your vehicle. If you prefer using car ramps, it’s crucial to drive up the ramps slowly, ensuring you position the vehicle accurately without rolling over the ramp’s edge. To prevent any backward movement, place a wooden block behind each of the rear wheels. Alternatively, if you opt for a car jack, consult your owners manual for the specified lifting point. Once you achieve the correct height, it’s recommended to place two jack stands underneath your Tacoma for added safety.
Before beginning the oil change, ensure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface, the engine is turned off, and the parking brake is engaged. If necessary, use wheel chocks for further security. By employing a suitable lifting method, you’ll have ample space underneath the Tacoma to comfortably perform the oil change.
Open the Hood
Open the hood and secure it with the hood prop rod. Find the hood release latch inside the car, positioned beneath the steering wheel. Next, locate the engine oil cap and unscrew it to facilitate faster oil drainage before performing the next step.
Drain the Oil
Place the oil pan beneath the drain plug and use your wrench to loosen the plug. As the oil begins to drain out, be aware that it may come out quickly before the flow gradually slows down. Be careful of warm oil (if the engine was running) when you move the pan to catch the old oil. When the oil has drained out, place the drain plug back in position.
Replace the Filter
To replace your vehicle’s engine filter, locate it on the passenger side of the engine bay. Use your wrench to gently remove the old filter. Before installing the new one, clean the filter’s housing unit thoroughly. Rub some oil on the gasket of the new oil filter, then screw it back into place.
Refill the Engine Oil
Insert the funnel into the engine oil opening, carefully positioning it. Gradually pour the appropriate amount and type of new oil into the funnel to prevent any oil from dripping onto other engine bay components. If needed, use extra bottles of oil, making sure to adhere to your vehicle’s specific quart requirement. After refilling the oil, examine the drain plug and oil filter for any leakage. Wipe away any oil spills and confirm that all components are secure.
Check the Oil Level
Check the oil level with your dipstick and add more oil if necessary. Reinstall the skid plate, start your vehicle, and perform an oil pressure test to ensure that the oil reaches the correct level. Lastly, turn off the engine and securely close the hood of your vehicle.
Schedule an Oil Change for Your Toyota Tacoma Today
If you prefer to take your Tacoma for an oil change, schedule an appointment with Keith Pierson Toyota today. Our qualified service technicians are available to perform anything else you may need, such as brake and battery checks. We look forward to serving you.
Image by Brian Beckwith is licensed with Unsplash License
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